Jamaica’s National Youth Robotics Team Prepares for ‘Robotics Olympics’ in Greece
Kingston, Jamaica – Jamaica’s National Youth Robotics Team is gearing up to represent the nation at the upcoming FIRST Global Challenge 2024, also known as the ‘Robotics Olympics,’ taking place in Athens, Greece from September 26 to 29. Recently, Member of Parliament Alando N. Terrelonge met with the team to emphasize the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and technology in Jamaica.
The delegation, consisting of five students, two coaches, and additional support personnel, hails from prominent schools, including the American International School of Kingston, Campion College, Hillel Academy, Immaculate Conception High School, Kingston College, and Wolmer’s Boys’ School. During the gathering, Terrelonge expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments and emphasized the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. “Our youth are the architects of tomorrow, and their participation in international competitions showcases not only their talents but also the potential of Jamaican innovation on the world stage,” he remarked.
Great meeting with our National Youth Robotics Team before they head to the ‘Robotics Olympics’ in Greece! STEM and vision of our govt re the future of tech in Jamaica at work! Watch them gear up to showcase Jamaican innovation on the world stage. 🇯🇲🤖#RoboticsOlympics #Jamaica pic.twitter.com/JQgawNcwXM
— Alando N Terrelonge, MA, MP #StrongwithTerrelonge (@terrelonge2016) September 21, 2024
Despite their preparation, the team is in need of financial support. Donavan Wilson, president of the New York-based Jamaica Union of Alumni Associations (UJAA), noted that the association is still seeking an additional US$20,000 to cover expenses for the participants. “Over the past seven years, Team Jamaica Robotics has had the support and sponsorship of UJAA and its 64 member alumni associations in the diaspora. The cost and undertaking have increased as the competition travels around the world. Despite air travel subsidy from FIRST, UJAA needs help in raising US$20,000,” Wilson stated.
The robotics team, comprised of talented students from various backgrounds, is enthusiastic about demonstrating Jamaica’s creativity and technical prowess on a global stage. As they prepare for the competition, which will see participation from over 190 countries, the team symbolizes a significant step forward in the government’s vision of integrating technology into education and promoting youth involvement in STEM fields.
As the countdown to the Robotics Olympics begins, support for these young innovators continues to grow, reflecting a united effort to place Jamaica on the global tech map. The nation eagerly anticipates the team’s performance and their potential to bring home accolades, as they have consistently done in previous competitions.
For more updates on the National Youth Robotics Team and their journey, follow Alando N. Terrelonge on social media using the hashtag #StrongwithTerrelonge.
